Royal Mail has introduced free email and SMS delivery notifications services for online retailers which use its services ahead of the busy Christmas period.

The delivery company has removed the 5p fee charge for email or text alerts that an item is due for delivery for parcels sent via its special delivery guaranteed and contract tracked services.

Royal Mail said the move is designed to help etailers improve the online shopping experience for their customers.

Nick Landon, managing director of Royal Mail Parcels, said: “We are a key partner for online retailers and are committed to providing a range of options to enhance delivery convenience and choice for online shoppers.”